What To Know
- Corns are caused by friction and pressure on the skin, which can occur from wearing ill-fitting shoes or engaging in activities that put stress on the feet.
- It is important to see a doctor if you have a corn or bone spur that is causing pain or discomfort.
- The healing time for a corn or bone spur will vary depending on the severity of the condition and the treatment method used.
Corn and bone spur are two common foot conditions that can cause pain and discomfort. While both conditions can affect the same area of the foot, they are caused by different factors and require different treatments. In this blog post, we will explore the differences between corn and bone spur, including their causes, symptoms, and treatment options.
What is a Corn?
A corn is a hard, thickened area of skin that develops on the foot. Corns are caused by friction and pressure on the skin, which can occur from wearing ill-fitting shoes or engaging in activities that put stress on the feet. Corns can be painful and may make it difficult to walk or wear shoes.
What is a Bone Spur?
A bone spur is a bony growth that develops on the bone. Bone spurs can occur anywhere in the body, but they are most common in the feet. Bone spurs are caused by the abnormal growth of bone, which can be triggered by arthritis, injury, or other factors. Bone spurs can be painful and may limit the range of motion in the affected joint.
Causes of Corn vs Bone Spur
Corn:
- Ill-fitting shoes
- Friction and pressure on the skin
- Bunions or hammertoes
- High heels
- Prolonged standing or walking
Bone Spur:
- Arthritis
- Injury
- Overuse
- Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes or gout
Symptoms of Corn vs Bone Spur
Corn:
- Hard, thickened area of skin
- Pain or tenderness
- Redness or swelling
- Callus formation
Bone Spur:
- Pain or stiffness in the affected joint
- Limited range of motion
- Swelling or redness
- Tenderness to the touch
- Numbness or tingling
Treatment Options for Corn vs Bone Spur
Corn:
- Padding: Wearing moleskin or felt pads over the corn can help to reduce friction and pressure.
- Corn removal products: Over-the-counter corn removal products can help to soften and remove the corn.
- Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the corn.
Bone Spur:
- Rest: Resting the affected joint can help to reduce pain and inflammation.
- Ice: Applying ice to the affected joint can help to reduce swelling and pain.
- Medication: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or naproxen, can help to reduce pain.
- Physical therapy: Physical therapy can help to improve range of motion and reduce pain.
- Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the bone spur.
Prevention of Corn vs Bone Spur
Corn:
- Wear comfortable, well-fitting shoes.
- Avoid wearing high heels or shoes with pointed toes.
- Use moleskin or felt pads to protect areas of the foot that are prone to friction.
- Trim toenails regularly.
Bone Spur:
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Exercise regularly to strengthen muscles and joints.
- Avoid activities that put stress on the affected joint.
- Use orthotics or shoe inserts to support the foot and reduce pressure on the bone spur.
When to See a Doctor
It is important to see a doctor if you have a corn or bone spur that is causing pain or discomfort. Your doctor can diagnose the condition and recommend the best course of treatment.
What You Need to Learn
1. What is the difference between a corn and a callus?
A corn is a hard, thickened area of skin that develops on the foot. A callus is also a hard, thickened area of skin, but it is usually larger and flatter than a corn. Corns are caused by friction and pressure on the skin, while calluses are caused by repeated rubbing or pressure.
2. Can I remove a corn or bone spur at home?
You can try to remove a corn at home using over-the-counter corn removal products. However, it is important to note that these products may not be effective for everyone. Bone spurs cannot be removed at home.
3. How long does it take for a corn or bone spur to heal?
The healing time for a corn or bone spur will vary depending on the severity of the condition and the treatment method used. Corns can usually be healed within a few weeks, while bone spurs may take longer to heal.
